Equipping yourself with cybersecurity knowledge while browsing the web is never redundant, especially for individuals who frequently use social media. Social media platforms are sharing-oriented, allowing users to share any website link or URL, but the platform's security tools may not cover all threats. At that time, you need to check if the link contains viruses to protect yourself.
How to Ensure Safe Links and Check for Viruses While Browsing the Web
Step 1: When you hover over an address on your computer screen, the mouse cursor will change to a hand if the address contains a hidden link. You can left-click on that area to go directly to the hidden address below. However, it's advisable to check the link before accessing it by right-clicking and selecting 'Copy link address' (Google Chrome) or 'Copy link location' (Mozilla Firefox). This way, the link will be saved in the computer's temporary memory, allowing you to paste it anywhere without accessing the address.
Step 2: Utilize one of the following online services to check whether a web link is safe.
1. Norton Safe Web
Norton Safe Web is an online tool to verify the safety of a link. With an intuitive interface, Norton Safe Web lists all threats on those websites, such as Computer threats, Identity threats, and Annoyance factors. As depicted in the image, Mytour's website evaluation tool is completely safe with no threats.
You can access the Norton Safe Web at this link: Norton Safe Web
2. PhishTank
With the proliferation of counterfeit and deceptive websites, PhishTank was created to detect these fraudulent websites. PhishTank is a free tool developed by OpenDNS, allowing you to quickly receive an answer after PhishTank checks whether the website link is safe or fraudulent.
You can access PhishTank at this link: PhishTank
3. Google Safe Browsing
This tool is developed by the world's leading technology company, Google. Operating on the search engine, so you can fully trust to use the service.
You can access Google Safe Browsing at this link: Google Safe Browsing
4. Online Link Scan
Combining the capabilities of the three websites above, Online Link Scan will check the links you input through the three services: Norton Safe Web, Phish Tank, and Google Safe Browsing simultaneously. Additionally, the tool will display the website's global ranking (Rank).
You can access Online Link Scan at this link: fontOnline Link Scan
5. Dr.Web Antivirus Online Link Checker
Dr.Web helps you scan links online, find malicious content on websites. The tool also displays all information such as malicious links on that website, checks social media links on Facebook, Google+,…
You can access the Dr.Web Online Link Checker at this link: Dr.Web Online Link Checker
6. VirusTotal
VirusTotal is a service for checking files and online link viruses. You can upload files or paste links to check. Additionally, the tool allows users to vote on the safety/danger of the website.
You can access VirusTotal at this link: VirusTotal
7. UnShorten.It
UnShorten.It is a service for decoding shortened URLs. Many people use short URLs as a tool to make money or to conceal dirty, harmful links. To check the truly shortened URL, you can use UnShorten.It to check the link along with the website interface.
You can access UnShorten.It at this link: UnShorten.It
Here are services to help you scan links, check online links safely and reliably. Along with checking online links before accessing, you should also choose the best antivirus software to install and ensure your computer is always safe.